A Report on the Ohio Energy Solutions Summit

The first statewide Ohio Energy Solutions Summit was held September 30 at the Toledo Electrical Training Center (JATC). The event was sponsored by the Ohio Electrical Management Cooperation Committee (OELMCC) which represents state members of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). The Summit showcased new energy efficient technologies and demonstrated the capabilities of the members of the OELMCC installing these systems.

Toledo JATC Training Director Dave Wellington opened the Summit with a thank you to the various companies and the Ohio Department of Development for their assistance in the installation of a new wind turbine, recently installed for training purposes. Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur and State Representative Matt Szollosi  addressed the crowd of 300 about the challenges and accomplishments made by the State of Ohio in the development of alternative energy manufacturing and installations. 

Also speaking at the event were NECA President Rex Ferry and NECA CEO John Grau. “What we’re seeing here today is the next chapter for our industry,” Grau said. “Today, the driving force behind much of our economic growth is conservation and sustainability – how to keep the lights on when natural resources may be reaching their limits. However, for NECA and the IBEW – most importantly, the people who use the electricity we help bring to their homes, businesses, schools and offices – the job remains true to our founding principle of bringing electricity to where it’s needed. Do it in a way that is safe. Do it in a way that doesn’t waste time or money.”

In 2009, the OELMCC received a 4.8 million dollar “green energy” training grant (Ohio GROWs – Green and Renewable Opportunities for Workers) from the U.S. Dept. of Labor to train electrical journeymen and apprentices in the areas of wind turbines, photovoltaic systems and building automation. Since then, training has been taking place in 19 facilities throughout the state. Recently, the OELMCC was awarded an FMCS grant to educate Contractors and Journeymen in a “Facilities Energy Audit Program.” These seminars give them the tools to perform Preliminary Energy Assessments (PEAs) for new and existing clients, in order to help them become more energy efficient (and reduce utility costs) in their businesses. 

Through these programs, electrical contractors and workers have learned that energy solutions combine energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy, integrated in a holistic way. By looking at the big picture of energy use, the NECA/IBEW team can recommend and install the best overall solution to minimize energy use, maximize energy efficiency, and—if it makes sense for the property—create energy from solar, wind, or other renewable sources.

The Summit also included several breakout sessions hosted by a variety of experts in the energy market.  Sessions included Electric Vehicle Market Potential, Installation of EVSE Equipment and information on an Ohio Grant Program for EV Infrastructure Projects. CEO Bill Spratley of Green Energy Ohio spoke on the future of renewable energy in Ohio. NECA contractors held seminars on solar installation projects and how to obtain financing.  NECA Student Chapters from Bowling Green State University and Youngstown University where challenged to present Energy Audits on a particular facility. In addition, wind turbine rigging demonstrations and climbing tower demos took place throughout the day.

The Summit also hosted a Trade Show with vendors from throughout the state focusing on alternative energy (solar and wind) technology, energy efficient lighting, and EV charging stations. 

Most renewable energy technologies are electricity-generating equipment, so it’s essential they are installed properly by professionals with solid training and experience in electrical systems. OELMCC members are in the unique position to educate consumers about the best renewable and energy-efficient options for their needs and to safely and successfully complete these high-tech installations